Country Profile: Anguilla
Anguilla is a small, flat island located in the Caribbean, characterized by its tropical climate and limestone terrain. The island, with a population estimated at around 19,416 in 2024, operates as a self-governing overseas territory of the United Kingdom. Its economy is heavily dependent on tourism, with high public debt influencing economic activity, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Anguilla has a parliamentary democracy, with its governance rooted in a common law system.
Geography
Anguilla is situated in the Caribbean Sea, east of Puerto Rico, and is part of the Lesser Antilles. The island covers an area of 91 square kilometers, making it about half the size of Washington, D.C. With a coastline of 61 km, Anguilla features a flat, low-lying landscape, predominantly composed of coral and limestone.
- Area: 91 sq km
- Coastline: 61 km
- Highest Point: Crocus Hill at 73 m
- Natural Resources: Salt, fish, and lobster
- Climate: Tropical, moderated by trade winds
People and Society
As of 2024, Anguilla has a population of approximately 19,416, with a higher number of females than males. The society is predominantly African/Black, making up over 85% of the population, while English is the official language. The population is fully urbanized, with The Valley being the major settlement.
- Urban Population: 100% (2023)
- Life Expectancy: 82.6 years (2024 est.)
- Median Age: 37.1 years (2024 est.)
- Birth Rate: 11.8 births per 1,000 population (2024 est.)
- Population Growth Rate: 1.74% (2024 est.)
Economy
Anguilla's economy is small and primarily driven by tourism, which has been recovering from the impacts of COVID-19. The island has a high level of public debt and is exploring options such as reopening an oil refinery. Agricultural production is minimal, with industries focusing on tourism and offshore financial services.
- GDP: $81.925 million (2017 est.)
- Exports: $7.9 million (2017 est.)
- Inflation Rate: 1.3% (2017 est.)
- Imports Partner Share: Chile 50%, USA 27% (2023)
- Unemployment Rate: Information not provided.
Government
Anguilla is a self-governing territory of the UK, functioning under a parliamentary democracy. The House of Assembly, which includes 11 members, oversees legislative functions. The head of state is King Charles III, represented locally by the Governor. The Premier, currently Cora Richardson-Hodge, heads the government.
- Capital: The Valley
- Legislative Structure: Unicameral (House of Assembly)
- Voting Age: 18 years
- National Holiday: Anguilla Day on May 30 (1967)
Military and Security
Defense responsibilities for Anguilla fall under the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom, highlighting the island's status as a British overseas territory.
Energy
Anguilla boasts a complete electrification rate of 100% for its population as of 2020, indicating effective energy access across the island.
Environment
Anguilla faces environmental challenges, primarily concerning inadequate potable water supply. The island's land use is characterized by its forest coverage, which is 61.1% as per 2022 estimates.
- Forest Coverage: 61.1% (2022 est.)
Transportation
The island is served by one airport and has a small merchant marine fleet consisting of two ships.
- Airports: 1 (2025)
- Merchant Marine: 2 vessels (2023)
Communications
Anguilla has a well-developed communication infrastructure, with a high percentage of mobile and internet subscribers.
- Internet Users: 81.6% of the population (2021 est.)
- Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 26,000 (2021 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 19,416 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 91 sq km | |
| Life Expectancy | 82.6 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 11.8 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Urbanization | 100% | Of total population (2023) |
| Inflation Rate | 1.3% | 2017 estimate |
| Electric Access | 100% | 2020 data |
| Government Debt | Very high | Contextual note |
| Employment Rate | Information not provided |
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